Preview — Brainstorm
by Daniel J. Siegel

Brainstorm: The Teenage Brain from the Inside Out

In this groundbreaking book, the bestselling author of *Parenting from the Inside Out* and *The Whole-Brain Child* shows parents how to turn one of the most challenging developmental periods in their children's lives into one of the most rewarding. Between the ages of 12 and 24, the brain changes in important and often maddening ways. It's no wonder that many parents approIn this groundbreaking book, the bestselling author of *Parenting from the Inside Out* and *The Whole-Brain Child* shows parents how to turn one of the most challenging developmental periods in their children's lives into one of the most rewarding. Between the ages of 12 and 24, the brain changes in important and often maddening ways. It's no wonder that many parents approach their child's adolescence with fear and trepidation. According to renowned neuropsychiatrist Daniel Siegel, however, if parents and teens can work together to form a deeper understanding of the brain science behind all the tumult, they will be able to turn conflict into connection and form a deeper understanding of one another. In *Brainstorm*, Siegel illuminates how brain development affects teenagers' behaviour and relationships. Drawing on important new research in the field of interpersonal neurobiology, he explores exciting ways in which understanding how the teenage brain functions can help parents make what is in fact an incredibly positive period of growth, change, and experimentation in their children's lives less lonely and distressing on both sides of the generational divide....more

Community Reviews

The myths about the teen brain are not just wrong, but destructive. We've heard for decades about the downsides of the teen years -- the risks taken, impulsivity and the like. Recent brain research has pegged some of this to a peculiarity in brain growth during those years: The growth of circuitry for impulse and pleasure outpaces that for inhibiting those impulses, which do not catch up until the early 20s.

But Dr. Siegel takes that same data and puts a positive spin on what this means for the tThe myths about the teen brain are not just wrong, but destructive. We've heard for decades about the downsides of the teen years -- the risks taken, impulsivity and the like. Recent brain research has pegged some of this to a peculiarity in brain growth during those years: The growth of circuitry for impulse and pleasure outpaces that for inhibiting those impulses, which do not catch up until the early 20s.

But Dr. Siegel takes that same data and puts a positive spin on what this means for the teen years -- which he pegs at ages 12 to 24. That's a unique period in life, with its burst of exploration, maturation and growth in every way. As he says, "Life is on fire."

And how teens navigate these years has real consequences for how they live the rest of lives. While there are always risks and downsides, the teen mind has unique positive qualities:

- A search for the new and novel. This byproduct of an increased power in the brain's reward circuitry creates a natural urge to explore the world, to try new things and ways of being. While the downside can be taking dangerous and impulsive risks, the upside is being open to change and a sense of adventure.

- A need for social connection. The teen years are marked by the importance of friendships. If teens become too isolated from the adults in their lives, this can increase risky behavior. But the ability to make strong friendships predicts well-being and satisfaction throughout life.

- Intense emotions. Life quickens, becoming more vital. While this can mean moodiness and over-reactivity, this intensity creates immense energy and a zest for life.

- Creativity and curiosity. This openness to the new combines with the teenager's acquisition of reasoning, abstract thinking and a creative bent. While this can sometimes lead to a crisis in identity or lack of direction, the upside can be out-of-the-box innovative thinking and creative exploration of life's possibilities.

All these attributes of the teen brain and the upsides, Siegel points out, would serve us well throughout our adult lives. ...more

Firstly and as usual, I received this book for the ripe sum of nothing via a giveaway, this time from Shelf Awareness. Despite that kind consideration from all involved my candid opinions follow below. To extend the preamble a bit, this book wasn't quite what I expected. Because of that I'm going to keep the value judgments to a minimum and instead just try to describe what the book tries to be. It's up to you whether it's what you want to be reading or not. I just make with the descriptions.

WhaFirstly and as usual, I received this book for the ripe sum of nothing via a giveaway, this time from Shelf Awareness. Despite that kind consideration from all involved my candid opinions follow below. To extend the preamble a bit, this book wasn't quite what I expected. Because of that I'm going to keep the value judgments to a minimum and instead just try to describe what the book tries to be. It's up to you whether it's what you want to be reading or not. I just make with the descriptions.

What I expected out of this book was something rather harder and more rooted in science. The book jacket says it's based on the latest research and I have no doubt that's the case but none of that research seems to have made its way directly into the book. Instead what you have is very soft and results-based approach to the topic. So if you're expecting data on brain chemistry changes through the adolescent years then, like me, you'll likely be disappointed. Instead you'll get instruction through analogy with concepts like "Mindsight" and the "Wheel of Awareness". This all seemed a bit soft to me but I suspect that for the majority of the population this sort of 'softness' is actually a ringing endorsement. Siegel has made a decidedly complex topic easily readable and provides parents with the tools they need to deal with a historically difficult period of parenthood.

Even more usefully, the doctor doesn't just dole out information but provides mental exercises the reader can perform to help internalize the lesson being taught and make it easier to implement personal changes. His text is also filled with abundant anecdotes from his own practice to reinforce the idea that the situations parents face are far from unique and have been dealt with successfully in the past. All in all this is an exceptionally well-balanced book unless you're looking for something a bit more dense and scientific.

I received this book through a giveaway on GoodReads. Within the first few pages I was already realizing that my way of thinking was being challenged and changed. This book takes a positive look on the changes of a 'teen brain' but isn't restricted for only that age group, but for adults as well. This is not just a book for parents of teens but anyone who is curious about the changes in the brain and how to deal with them.

There were some interesting things in the book, but I had a few problems with it.First, the title was wrong. This book dealt primarily with how adults can train their brains to be younger - and not about the teenage brain, which was secondary or even perhaps tertiary. Second, the way this book was written reminded me of a 1980's style. The author loved created acronyms for everything and describing his ideas based on a alliteration of words. This best descriptions don't always rhyme or begin witThere were some interesting things in the book, but I had a few problems with it.First, the title was wrong. This book dealt primarily with how adults can train their brains to be younger - and not about the teenage brain, which was secondary or even perhaps tertiary. Second, the way this book was written reminded me of a 1980's style. The author loved created acronyms for everything and describing his ideas based on a alliteration of words. This best descriptions don't always rhyme or begin with the same letter - so this was off-putting. I felt that the ability to hone a truth took a backseat to branding. If you love acronyms and alliterations to guide you then great.Third, making up new names for something else. The one that stands out is "mindsight." What is it? Awareness. You can have internal and external awareness, I mean mindsight." Fourth, there's not bibliography. This kind of puts an additional damper on treating this book like a well researched scientific dissertation, versus a self-help system pulled from the ether with just enough name dropping to give it a sense of validity.

I gave this two stars and not one because if someone picks this book up to read out of interest to learn more about the human brain - well, that's something....more

The tag line for this book is "the Power and Purpose of the Teenage Brain". Thus I expected some profound insights on adolescence. And yes, to be fair, the author did talk about teen behavior and how the brain functions. But I felt that the bulk of this book was made up of "mind sight" exercises - things like breathing techniques, reflection, and other stuff that my teen will never do. If this book had been labeled as such - meditation and breathing exercises for teens, or something like that, mThe tag line for this book is "the Power and Purpose of the Teenage Brain". Thus I expected some profound insights on adolescence. And yes, to be fair, the author did talk about teen behavior and how the brain functions. But I felt that the bulk of this book was made up of "mind sight" exercises - things like breathing techniques, reflection, and other stuff that my teen will never do. If this book had been labeled as such - meditation and breathing exercises for teens, or something like that, my decision to read would have been different. While the book does have useful info, it was not what I was looking for. ...more

Based on research into actual brain changes, this book defines teenage years as between ages 12-24. This book was written so it could be read by either teenagers or their parents. While somewhat simplified for the benefit of younger readers, the book presents ideas that are helpful to any person (even senior citizens).

I heard Daniel Siegel being interviewed on NPR and instantly ordered a book for myself and one for our daughter-in-law. My husband is always interested in learning more about braiBased on research into actual brain changes, this book defines teenage years as between ages 12-24. This book was written so it could be read by either teenagers or their parents. While somewhat simplified for the benefit of younger readers, the book presents ideas that are helpful to any person (even senior citizens).

I heard Daniel Siegel being interviewed on NPR and instantly ordered a book for myself and one for our daughter-in-law. My husband is always interested in learning more about brain function. He agreed with me that, since the oldest grandchild was already showing signs of teenage angst, we should buy and send the extra copy. Anything to help the kids survive their children's teenage years.

The book gives detailed explanations of how the teenage brain functions and how it is different from earlier or later years. It helps parents and teenagers recognize the strengths of those drives and how to channel energy into productive behavior. Some sections are general guides for surviving the changes.Some sections about specific (sex, drug use, separation issues, and other teen issues).

Some of the strengths of the teenage brain really should be reactivated as adults, to keep us from becoming set in routine, less willing to step outside our comfort zone. Sections are spent reflecting on past relationships and how to bridge or build better relationships (helpful at any age). Sections are given on how to build a balanced, healthy lifestyle that are also valuable advice for all ages.

Three and a half stars. I would give it 4 stars for the subjects covered (and have already recommended it to several parents with teenagers), three for the simplified writing. I appreciate the reason for that format, but it detracted from some of my reading pleasure. As I read I couldn't help but think that my scientifically-oriented husband may not stick with the book (though he should). The problem? It talks about inner reflection--the bane of the left-brained.

This should not be a book just to read and apply in your evaluation of other people. It should be a book where you learn (or redirect your attention) to reexamine yourself and how you respond to significant others. However, if adults are looking for nothing else than help to survive living with teenagers, this book would be worth the time and effort.

I found this book informative, but dry. I enjoyed the sections about how to use the teenage mind's propensity for pleasure and new things in a positive way very enlightening, and was definitely one of the highlights of the book. The beginning I found very drawn out, but it picks up pace and becomes less repetitive in the later chapters. I think Siegel is at his best when explaining the neurology and science behind adolescent bI received this book in a GoodReads Giveaway; this was a galley copy.

I found this book informative, but dry. I enjoyed the sections about how to use the teenage mind's propensity for pleasure and new things in a positive way very enlightening, and was definitely one of the highlights of the book. The beginning I found very drawn out, but it picks up pace and becomes less repetitive in the later chapters. I think Siegel is at his best when explaining the neurology and science behind adolescent behaviors in an easily understood way. ...more

"The Teenage Brain for Dummies" I personally was hoping for a science and research-heavy book about adolescent development and brain changes. Maybe that was my mistake, because this book is definitely not any of that. No, it's like a bad self-help book for teens/parents. Definitely not worth the read.

Brainstorm was a fascinating new read about the mind. As a School Counselor, I found the book to be very well delineated for when one might need a quick reference OR have an hour or two to delve into the inter-workings of any informative title. Although some of the book reiterated what we already know (understanding vs. telling/demanding), it gave me a scientific perspective on brain growth as well that I did not receive in Graduate School. I found Mr. Siegel's research to be relatable and readaBrainstorm was a fascinating new read about the mind. As a School Counselor, I found the book to be very well delineated for when one might need a quick reference OR have an hour or two to delve into the inter-workings of any informative title. Although some of the book reiterated what we already know (understanding vs. telling/demanding), it gave me a scientific perspective on brain growth as well that I did not receive in Graduate School. I found Mr. Siegel's research to be relatable and readable for any age or person having experience with adolescents, as compared to some authors whose jargon can get the best of some well-intended readers. I plan to utilize this book in any endeavors while working with children and even adults, as I believe one's adolescent influence is important to consider well into adulthood....more

i enjoyed this book despite the fact that i cannot stand the way daniel siegel writes. he means well, i know he does--his earnestness and enthusiasm are in boldface all over every page. but i came to this book looking for information, not a new best friend, so at times it was incredibly difficult to get through. still, there's a lot of good stuff in this book, which came across to me as a kind of one-stop compilation of the latest good science on neurology, brain development, mindfulness, psychoi enjoyed this book despite the fact that i cannot stand the way daniel siegel writes. he means well, i know he does--his earnestness and enthusiasm are in boldface all over every page. but i came to this book looking for information, not a new best friend, so at times it was incredibly difficult to get through. still, there's a lot of good stuff in this book, which came across to me as a kind of one-stop compilation of the latest good science on neurology, brain development, mindfulness, psychotherapy, and the role of physical health in mental well-being. i have a 12yo with the brain of a 19yo, and a 9yo with the brain of a tween, so there's a lot here for me to think about. i often cringe when i read parenting books, since they're invariably written by people doing a much better job of things than i am, but for the most part i found the material presented here, and the structure of its presentation, very helpful and very accessible. if you read much at all about the brain or about mindfulness, you'll encounter a lot of familiar information, but the way its organized and the particular context of this book make it still worth your time. ...more

Brainstorm was more spiritual than I expected. I was looking forward to concrete examples of how to get my future kids in shape for the world, and I got breathing and meditation exercises instead. As a practicing psychiatrist, Siegel is very knowledgeable on the topic of adolescence, and it’s his clinical stories that I found most interesting; however, this book reads more like a textbook than anything else, and even though Siegel wrote thI received a copy of Brainstorm from Goodreads First Reads.

Brainstorm was more spiritual than I expected. I was looking forward to concrete examples of how to get my future kids in shape for the world, and I got breathing and meditation exercises instead. As a practicing psychiatrist, Siegel is very knowledgeable on the topic of adolescence, and it’s his clinical stories that I found most interesting; however, this book reads more like a textbook than anything else, and even though Siegel wrote this for both adolescents and adults, I’m not sure if these age groups (especially the prior one) can relate to what he’s written.

IntroductionMost of us think of the period of adolescence – between the ages of twelve and twenty-four – as when our hormones go haywire and we do stupid things; “those crazy kids,” people shake their heads and say. Siegel aims to elucidate the challenges and benefits of that period of our growth and explain why adolescents feel the way they do by examining changes in the brain. As a book for both adolescents and adults, he provides Mindsight Tools as guidance for obtaining mindful awareness and a healthier mind and body.

DiscussionBrainstorm is divided up into four sections, some of which I liked and some of which I didn’t like. I felt that sometimes the transition from subtopic to subtopic was a bit sudden, since this book isn’t tied together by a single “story.” I enjoyed reading about Siegel’s patients because it puts what he’s saying in perspective, so I wish that there were more real-world examples than explanations and facts.

Likewise, the four Mindsight Tools – which applies the concepts learned from each section – were useful at times and too abstract for me at others. For example, Siegel provides an awareness exercise (which he also has audio for online) that’s basically meditation, and I’m not sure how adolescents feel about actually doing it. I personally remember being subjected to a similar exercise when I was in my teens, and some kids actually fell asleep during the exercise. With that said, my favorite Mindsight Tools is the last one, in which Siegel describes seven activities (downtime, playtime, sleep time, etc.) that “keep your body healthy, your mind strong, and your brain continuing to grow in integrative ways throughout your life.”

And as a book catered to two different populations of readers, I think Brainstorm is more adept at reaching the adult population than the adolescent population. The writing style in this book makes it feel like a lecture given by a professor with a very soothing voice that makes me bored and sleepy at times. When Siegel talks about his young patients or his adolescent children, his voice inevitably shifts to that of an adult, and it makes him a little bit harder to relate to.

I also wish that this book provided more detailed references to studies and scientific methods; often the phrase “science has proven that…” is given, and I think the studies themselves would’ve been interesting to read about too.

For me, the best parts of Brainstorm are the comics that are interspersed throughout the text. They’re simple, cute, and witty, and made the book more enjoyable to read.

ConclusionOverall, Brainstorm explains the workings of the adolescent mind in a somewhat abstract way, and I wish that there were more concrete examples and detailed explanations of the research in this area. However, there were stories that I could relate to and sections and graphics that I enjoyed, so I did learn something from this book. (Oh, and I learned how to make a brain with my hand! That was pretty cool.)

“Brainstorm: The Power and Purpose of the Teenage Brain” written by known medical expert Daniel J. Siegel is a serious story about a period of life that sometimes is not considered with due seriousness – the adolescence.

Although the memories of our adolescent years are often filled with all kinds of interesting and picturesque events when it comes to others, even our kids, one sentence can be often heard that a person should not be taken especially seriously because she/he is an adolescent.And d“Brainstorm: The Power and Purpose of the Teenage Brain” written by known medical expert Daniel J. Siegel is a serious story about a period of life that sometimes is not considered with due seriousness – the adolescence.

Although the memories of our adolescent years are often filled with all kinds of interesting and picturesque events when it comes to others, even our kids, one sentence can be often heard that a person should not be taken especially seriously because she/he is an adolescent.And due to that, right at the beginning of the book the author emphasizes that adolescence is not just teenage period although often a sign of equality is put between them, the adolescence is period between the age of twelve and goes even far as the age of twenty-four what is in many cultures already considered as adulthood, but is not entirely so.

Using this book will primarily benefit parents because it will allow them to improve their skills supporting their children going through the challenging time. But the book also can be read by the adolescents and teenagers themselves, that know best how difficult is period of life they’re just going through, to help them pass that journey somewhat easier and painlessly.

Siegel bravely tackled the many myths that are commonly associated with this period of life, which are sometimes interpreted almost as scientific facts, such as explanation the reason for teenagers to lose their minds being raging hormones when in fact it's not about hormones that determine what happens, but the brain that goes through major changes during that period of life.

On his book, the author managed to identify many changes that are happening through this troubled period for young brain, showing what specifically is cause for such changes in terms of behavior.Precisely in this way for parents will be easier to understand their children, they will not see own children overnight becoming different, and no longer recognizable, but instead they’ll be able to talk about the causes of changes in their behavior and thinking, give them support and help them together getting through this period.

For these reasons Daniel J. Siegel’s book, though just published, is destined to become recommended reading for every parent who wants to help her/his child to grow into a happy person satisfied with her/himself - and better recommendation for this book it’s difficult to give....more

This book was recommended to me to help me get some better insight into the teenage mind, and in that regard, it did its job well. In fact, the third part of the book was likely the most helpful. Like other reviews, I found it took a while to actually get to the meat of the issues, and I was hoping for a little more on what the average parent can do specifically to cope with teens going through this stage of life. The examples helped put things in perspective a bit, but on the other hand, I coulThis book was recommended to me to help me get some better insight into the teenage mind, and in that regard, it did its job well. In fact, the third part of the book was likely the most helpful. Like other reviews, I found it took a while to actually get to the meat of the issues, and I was hoping for a little more on what the average parent can do specifically to cope with teens going through this stage of life. The examples helped put things in perspective a bit, but on the other hand, I couldn't help thinking, as I always have, that a lot of dealing with the teenage mind is garnering the patience and control to simply wait it out. I didn't necessarily need a book to tell me that....more

If you ARE an adolescent, LIVE WITH an adolescent, ONCE WERE an adolescent, work with adolescents, or hope to one day nurture any adolescents, I HIGHLY recommend this book. Oh, also, if you don't fit any of the above categories, but you are a human with a brain... This book was absolutely incredible, shed a tremendous amount of light on aspects of my humanity, and, I daresay, was written in such a way that I feel reaches out to my human experience with empathy. I'll be mulling this one over forIf you ARE an adolescent, LIVE WITH an adolescent, ONCE WERE an adolescent, work with adolescents, or hope to one day nurture any adolescents, I HIGHLY recommend this book. Oh, also, if you don't fit any of the above categories, but you are a human with a brain... This book was absolutely incredible, shed a tremendous amount of light on aspects of my humanity, and, I daresay, was written in such a way that I feel reaches out to my human experience with empathy. I'll be mulling this one over for an insightful while....more

A great book for professionals as well as those seeking professional help. A great read, though there are a few flat bits of meandering prose is more than made up for by the examples and personal insights that are covered in great breadth and depth. Definitely one I pass onto my patients which creates a helpful perspective to therapy.

This is not a book I would typically read. However, my wife gifted it to me last Christmas, as we have has pre-teen son who is on his way to being a teen son. I can’t say that I opened to the first page with a fully open mind, but I was intrigued by how the book was billed as more a text on the science of adolescent neurology than a self-help book. If it were a science book, I could get into that, but there was a lot of self-help themed exercises that were more distracting than helpful to the caThis is not a book I would typically read. However, my wife gifted it to me last Christmas, as we have has pre-teen son who is on his way to being a teen son. I can’t say that I opened to the first page with a fully open mind, but I was intrigued by how the book was billed as more a text on the science of adolescent neurology than a self-help book. If it were a science book, I could get into that, but there was a lot of self-help themed exercises that were more distracting than helpful to the casual reader.

This is not to say I didn’t find anything of value in “Brainstorm.” In Part III, Dr. Siegel describes various forms of “attachment,” which is “in effect the way in which our brains remember the attachment relationship(s) we have had, or still have, and how we adapted to these formative attachment experiences.” The more “secure” our early attachments the more “integrated” our brains develop; the more “avoidant” our early attachments, the more likely it is that our brains have encoded a response to relationships that can lead to lasting problems. Not only was there some science in this section of the book, but it also made me think about what the signs of secure and avoidant attachments revealed about me and my upbringing. It did make some things make more sense.

There were also some interesting sections on how teen moodiness and poor risk assessment is the result of the development of the brain and not “raging hormones.” Ultimately, maturity comes as a result of the various parts of the brain learning to be more “integrated.”

That said, the rest of the book is full of acronyms and mnemonics to help us build health relationships and self-awareness that, while perhaps being useful in the therapist’s office (I’m sure Dr. Siegel has a successful practice), as self-help tools that seemed a little hokey. Most of these are found in “Mindsight” practice sections of the book. There’s the “inner mental sea,” the “metaphoric lens” on a “tripod” with openness, objectivity, and observation as the “three legs,” cultivating relationships by being “PART” (present, attune, resonate, and trust), “SNAG” (stimulate neuronal activation and growth), and the seven activities on “the healthy mind platter.” I didn’t go into this booking looking for yoga-like exercises on how to be a better father, so those chapters were a bit of slog.

So, be forewarned: you might ultimately find that this book has useful advice on how to deal with your teen, but a medical text it is not....more

To maintain these qualities helps a person to be a lifelong learner—one of those big goals that all educators hope their students achieve because it means they will have a full life.

Most adults think of adolescents as hormone-crazed drama kings and queens. But, of course, this isn’t fair. While the teen years are a timThere are four qualities of adolescence—the period between ages 12 and 24—that adults must try never to lose:

To maintain these qualities helps a person to be a lifelong learner—one of those big goals that all educators hope their students achieve because it means they will have a full life.

Most adults think of adolescents as hormone-crazed drama kings and queens. But, of course, this isn’t fair. While the teen years are a time of emotional intensity and full of tears, they are also a time when playfulness and humor can emerge.

But still, adults understand one thing that adolescents might not: this period between age 12 and 24 is the most dangerous in life. At this age, the highest percentage of avoidable deaths occur. The brain isn’t finished forming and teens don’t fully grasp their risk-taking behaviors. They drink, do drugs and drive too fast; they kill themselves and others.

And yet somehow they can go from this to becoming adults who live on autopilot. As adults, they can find life too stressful, too difficult. They find it easier just to have a survival routine mode. They don’t make new friends or try new things. They are in a rut.

So how can we work on both these problems—to be careful enough in adolescence not to do real damage, but to keep the love of new experiences (novelty) as adults? Siegel gives the reader a lot of advice. He shows teens that although they are (and should be) more connected to peers at this age, they need to stay connected to adults to avoid dumb risk taking.

Brainstorm is actually about more than just the teenage brain. Anyone who wants to figure out why they do what they do, and who hopes to live a more fulfilling life, will enjoy the book. The bonus is that the conclusions are based on scientific research on the brain. So the reader will be comfortable in trying any of the several ‘mindsight tools’ that Siegel includes. And the book is organized so that the chapters can be read in any order that interests the reader—or s/he might concentrate on some of the chapters and skip others.

High school housekeeping: This is a great book for any teen who’s worrying about handling her or his problems, about becoming an adult and losing the best of him or herself. It’s also great if your teacher gives you a nonfiction assignment. It’s the kind of book that the framers of the Common Core are hoping you’ll have the chance to read because it has facts about brain science (all put in layman’s terms) and yet it’s very interesting. If you are looking for a book that will help you practice mindfulness, the ‘mindsight’ exercises are a good start. At just over 300 pages, Brainstorm is also the shortest book I’ve read that does a good job of detailing how we can use brain science as the basis of working at creating our happiness or contentment. What better real-life application of learning can there be?

I picked this up after seeing Daniel Siegel speak on the topic just after the book was released. His talk focused on the physiological changes that the brain goes through during this stage of life, and how this contributes to the behavior often seen in teenagers. He also put a great deal of emphasis on debunking common misconceptions about the what's and why's of adolescence. I was excited to read about the nuts and bolts of what was covered in the short session.

Unfortunately, that was not to bI picked this up after seeing Daniel Siegel speak on the topic just after the book was released. His talk focused on the physiological changes that the brain goes through during this stage of life, and how this contributes to the behavior often seen in teenagers. He also put a great deal of emphasis on debunking common misconceptions about the what's and why's of adolescence. I was excited to read about the nuts and bolts of what was covered in the short session.

Unfortunately, that was not to be. What I had perceived as the primary topic of the book--the changes in the brain during adolescence--was certainly a foundation. But it was covered in fairly shallow terms, after which he delved into a confounding range of topics. This wide scope seemed to represent a set of personal philosophies and approaches to navigating the numerous challenges that adolescence are likely to encounter. Towards the end, he goes even further afield, cramming in a grab-bag of general life-lessons like "make sure to get enough sleep" and "don't litter".

Now, don't get me wrong--I can (theoretically) get behind just about all of the techniques that he advocates and the reasons backing them up. The chapters on attachment theory and understanding how they effect your relationships were particularly enlightening as an adult, and his approach to discussing sexuality, drug use, and moving back home were well informed and respectful. I would likely recommend this book to anyone raising an adolescent as a solid perspective backed by a lot of data and wisdom. But be aware that there is plenty of bias.

As to his goal of writing this such that an adolescent would also want to read it and find it appealing... well, I don't know. But I can't imagine I would have during those years. His self-admitted use of acronyms had me groaning by the end, and his invented terminology for mindfulness and meditation concepts such as "time in" would have seemed awfully silly to me as a teen or young adult. But what do I know? Maybe it reads better to modern youth.

In summary: Lots of great content! I just wish it was more focused and deep. And who knows how it is for parents or teens....more

This was my clinical book group's most recent reading selection to learn a bit more about the adolescent brain. I felt like most of the information I had encountered before through trainings on trauma and the brain. I did feel like the chapter on attachment was a nice reminder that early attachment patterns continue to manifest into adolescence and adulthood. Sadly, the writing was not the most captivating for me. And I was puzzled at the endorsements from Goldie Hawn and Alanis Morissette. I diThis was my clinical book group's most recent reading selection to learn a bit more about the adolescent brain. I felt like most of the information I had encountered before through trainings on trauma and the brain. I did feel like the chapter on attachment was a nice reminder that early attachment patterns continue to manifest into adolescence and adulthood. Sadly, the writing was not the most captivating for me. And I was puzzled at the endorsements from Goldie Hawn and Alanis Morissette. I did appreciate his sections on mindfulness tools and I will incorporate some of them into my work with kiddos. He mentions that his target audience includes parents and teens, but I was really at a loss as to how a teen would take in this book. But everyone's brain is different so I suppose anything is possible....more

In full disclosure, I'm kind of a Danieal Siegel fan boy. I am unapologetic about this. His work is one of the major factors behind my decision to become a mental health clinician. I think he's a master communicator/educator/popularizer of these hitherto esoteric and complicated ideas i.e. the mind, the brain, mental health, mindfulness etc. I loved the Mindfull Brain and Mindsight and (despite the fact that some of this book is fruity as hell) I think this may be my favorite so far.

People critIn full disclosure, I'm kind of a Danieal Siegel fan boy. I am unapologetic about this. His work is one of the major factors behind my decision to become a mental health clinician. I think he's a master communicator/educator/popularizer of these hitherto esoteric and complicated ideas i.e. the mind, the brain, mental health, mindfulness etc. I loved the Mindfull Brain and Mindsight and (despite the fact that some of this book is fruity as hell) I think this may be my favorite so far.

People criticize Daniel Siegel for being "light weight" or for "playing fast and loose with the science" or for being a "neophyte meditator". I think these criticisms are missing the real value of his work. There are plenty of technical, comprehensive and arcane texts on the afore mentioned subjects. If you want complex, precise or difficult there are no shortages of books out there that fit that bill. My advise is to go read those if that's what your wanting. Danieal Siegel's work is all about making these ideas available to a popular audience. And based on his popularity (a tautology I know but bare with me) it's working.

One of the major innovations of this book is it offers an alternative to the threadbare notion that teenagers are dangerous, narcissistic and irresponsible and adolescence is the trying time every parent must endure.

Dr. Siegel gently flips these veritable truisms on their head by reframing adolescence as an important developmental stage, where adventurous creativity and sets for life set the stage for an adult life that (I'm paraphrasing) isn't dead on the vine. In other words, if our adolescents aren't taking risks and exploring their "one wild life" than there is a serious problem.

Their brains are going through a massive "boom and prune" growth faze. They are more or less hard wired to take risks, explore their boundaries and play whatever cards they are holding.

The trick is to offer them enough differentiated connection to the adult world so that they have opportunities to explore their wild and crazy interests in a safe and sustainable way.

Dr. Siegel takes it one step further and challenges adults (in his typical super soft way) to rekindle what's left of their adolescent joi de vivre in order to stave off the dried up old stuck in a rut grown up shit we all swore we'd avoid when we were that age. That's the real message of the book.

Reader beware, if you looking for a How To Parent Your CRAZY Teen, keep looking. This book challenges the reader to focus on changing and improving the one thing you may be able to change and improve. Yourself. The tacit message is if you do that, than your "crazy" teen just may be positively influenced. At the minimum you'll be less crazy. So there.

Lastly: the book has some major flaws. The most glaring being the portmanteau "mwe" Siegel coined by smashing up the words me and we. Mwe! Don't even fuckin ask me what the fuck he was thinking. Any way. I guess you have to take some risks in order to create. And Dr. Siegel makes up for all of his cringable cheese with some really sweet and authentically deep stuff. So (almost) all is forgiven....more

I may spend the rest of my life learning and not come up with much of what Dr. Siegel is espousing in the book. I found two reviews over at Amazon, by "Rober Slaven" and "Girl Scout Dad" that best sum up what I came away with. The title of GS Dad's review, "The Book Quickly Wanders Away from its Title Message, Ironically, Like a Teenager with a Short Attention Span, March 10, 2014" I will stipulate, up front, from other reviewers and Siegel's web site, that the science sounds pretty solid - butI may spend the rest of my life learning and not come up with much of what Dr. Siegel is espousing in the book. I found two reviews over at Amazon, by "Rober Slaven" and "Girl Scout Dad" that best sum up what I came away with. The title of GS Dad's review, "The Book Quickly Wanders Away from its Title Message, Ironically, Like a Teenager with a Short Attention Span, March 10, 2014" I will stipulate, up front, from other reviewers and Siegel's web site, that the science sounds pretty solid - but it is not conveyed in this work. Here, I am getting a bunch of touchy-feely, yoga-like exercise and guidance that may work, but it not the reason I picked up the book. Perhaps, if you are a fan of his other works, it may be what you're after - but not a first exposure to Siegel....more

By the title alone, I thought I was going to get a book that focused mainly on helping me understand the adolescent brain. What I got was only a bit of that information. The rest was how to help the adolescent grow into a more well-rounded individual. Usually, something of this measure wouldn't bother me. Unfortunately, the help was in the form of mindful meditation. As a teacher who interacts with students solely in the classroom, I will be hard pressed to implement his suggested measures in thBy the title alone, I thought I was going to get a book that focused mainly on helping me understand the adolescent brain. What I got was only a bit of that information. The rest was how to help the adolescent grow into a more well-rounded individual. Usually, something of this measure wouldn't bother me. Unfortunately, the help was in the form of mindful meditation. As a teacher who interacts with students solely in the classroom, I will be hard pressed to implement his suggested measures in the classroom.

The positive that I took away from the book came in the beginning, which is essentially summed up in the jacket of the book, that the adolescent years is a time to embrace and to help them strengthen what they have....more

- Love how positive Siegel is towards the period of adolescence. He emphasizes that it's not just a time period to "get through" but one that should be supported and celebrated.

- Has a nice conversational feel to his writing.

- I didn't find the "mindsight" portions to be super useful. Maybe the last one at the end with what to do to have a healthy life. But the first few weren't focused enough on adolescence in particular for my tastes.

- Breaking down adolescence into four fields (novelty seekin- Love how positive Siegel is towards the period of adolescence. He emphasizes that it's not just a time period to "get through" but one that should be supported and celebrated.

- Has a nice conversational feel to his writing.

- I didn't find the "mindsight" portions to be super useful. Maybe the last one at the end with what to do to have a healthy life. But the first few weren't focused enough on adolescence in particular for my tastes.

- Breaking down adolescence into four fields (novelty seeking, social engagement, increased emotional intensity, and creative exploration) was something new I hadn't seen in other books about adolescent development and I liked it a lot....more

I think it's a tremendously important book for parents of teens and preteens to read and a pretty compelling read even if you don't have skin the game, parenting-wise. Dr. Siegel walks the reader through the "Whys" of the adolescent brain, not to mention the "Huhs?" and the "CAN YOU PLEASE STOP DOING THAT YOU ARE MAKING ME INSANES" (Sorry; they can't). The science is up to date and chewy but not overwhelming and it will give the reader a real sympathy and understanding for the degree to which adI think it's a tremendously important book for parents of teens and preteens to read and a pretty compelling read even if you don't have skin the game, parenting-wise. Dr. Siegel walks the reader through the "Whys" of the adolescent brain, not to mention the "Huhs?" and the "CAN YOU PLEASE STOP DOING THAT YOU ARE MAKING ME INSANES" (Sorry; they can't). The science is up to date and chewy but not overwhelming and it will give the reader a real sympathy and understanding for the degree to which adolescence is both necessary and, ultimately, positive. They have to do what they do, act how they act, in order to grow into fully-formed adults. Dr. Siegel also gives real concrete suggestions for how to improve communication with your teen and help them use this lovely weird new brain in positive and not destructive ways. This is good stuff, people,

(Disclosure: Dr. Siegel and I share a publishing house and I received a prepublication copy from Penguin.)...more

Having read about the new scientific understanding of how our brains change and rewire during adolescence, I was very interested when I heard Daniel J. Siegel speak about his new book Brainstorm: The Power and Purpose of the Teenage Brain. While I enjoy the science behind Siegel's book, I found reading the book quite tedious as it delves into our self awareness and seems to go off topic as he describes how we can better tune our brains with short and simple exercises. Siegel specifically says thHaving read about the new scientific understanding of how our brains change and rewire during adolescence, I was very interested when I heard Daniel J. Siegel speak about his new book Brainstorm: The Power and Purpose of the Teenage Brain. While I enjoy the science behind Siegel's book, I found reading the book quite tedious as it delves into our self awareness and seems to go off topic as he describes how we can better tune our brains with short and simple exercises. Siegel specifically says that this book is designed to be read by both teenagers and parents, and that it should help them understand the emotional issues that arise during adolescence. I really can not see many teenagers being willing to read this book or that it would help them very much to do so. For parents there are some concrete suggestions but I am not sure they are sufficient to recommend the book. ...more

A wonderful, wonderful book. I am reevaluating my parenting from top to bottom. I've particularly liked the discussions around attachment theory, and how that shows up. I saw so much of myself in this book. I deeply appreciation the stories which demonstrate the neuroplasticity which is, in so many ways, the essential story of this book. I've had my parenting a bit backwards, where I was focusing on fixed, and advising rather than having her Seen, Soothed, Safe, and Secure. You may find his endlA wonderful, wonderful book. I am reevaluating my parenting from top to bottom. I've particularly liked the discussions around attachment theory, and how that shows up. I saw so much of myself in this book. I deeply appreciation the stories which demonstrate the neuroplasticity which is, in so many ways, the essential story of this book. I've had my parenting a bit backwards, where I was focusing on fixed, and advising rather than having her Seen, Soothed, Safe, and Secure. You may find his endless use of mnemonics a bit much, but I do remember more of the content because of it. ...more

155.5 SIE AllPLAYER 155.5 SIE AllMy review: Basically I read twice, simply because before I finished it I had to return back to library. After I got it from library, I simply feel I could not recall anytime I remember. So I reread it again. Basically I find the main theme of this is how to integrate your brain.

p1 Adolescence 12 -24 years old.p2 one myth ...is that raging hormones cause teenagers to "go mad" or "lose their minds". That's simply false. ..is primarily the result of changes in deve155.5 SIE AllPLAYER 155.5 SIE AllMy review: Basically I read twice, simply because before I finished it I had to return back to library. After I got it from library, I simply feel I could not recall anytime I remember. So I reread it again. Basically I find the main theme of this is how to integrate your brain.

p1 Adolescence 12 -24 years old.p2 one myth ...is that raging hormones cause teenagers to "go mad" or "lose their minds". That's simply false. ..is primarily the result of changes in development of brain.another myth is the adolescence is simply a time of immaturity and teens just need to "grow up"a third myth requires moving form dependence on adults to total independence from them.

p4 As Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe wrote: "Treat people as if they were what they ought to be and you help them become they are capable of being." Adolescence is not a period of being "crazy" or "immature". It is essential time of emotional intensity, social engagement, and creativity. This is the essence of how we "ought to be", of what we are capable of, and of what we need as individuals and as a human family.

p7 Brain changes during the early teen years set up four qualities of our minds during adolescence: novelty seeking, social engagement, increased emotional intensity, and creative exploration.

Part II Your brainp67 The brain's increased drive for reward in adolescence manifests in teen's lives in 3 important ways: ..increased impulsiveness(counteract by cognitive control); ...increase susceptibility to addiction; hyperrationality.p70 Research suggests that risky behaviour in adolescent have less to do with hormonal unbalance than with changes in our brain's dopamine reward system combined with the cortical architecture that supports hyperrational decision-making creating the positive bias.p75 Their decision were a combination of reward drive, peer process, and hyperrational, non-gist thinking....So 2 broad ways that risky behavior emerges in adolescence are hyperrationality, the downplaying of cons of an action, and impulsivity, or simple flying off the handle.p81 Brain changes is 2 dimensions pruning and myelination:. One is how it reduces the number of the brain's basic cells, the neurons, the their connections, the synapses. This decreasing of neurons and synapse is called "pruning" and appears to be genetically controlled, shaped by experience and intensified with stress.. During childhood there is an overproduction of neurons and their synaptic connection. The blossoming of neurons begins in utero and extend to pre-pubertal, about 11 year of age in girls and 12 and half in boys. Some pruning begins early as we learn and develop skills, but the removal of our overall number of neurons and their connection reaches its peak during the robust remodeling period of adolescence. In adolescence we prune those excess connections away, leaving the ones we've been using and discarding the ones we don't seems to need anymore. Experience shapes which neural circuits -the neurons and their synaptic connection - will be pruned away. So if you want to have a musical skill, best to star early, before the end of adolescence.another myelination

Part III Your attachmentp145 Human attachment can be understood as involving four S's: seen; safe; soothed; secure.Model of attachment: The secure model; The avoidant model; Ambivalent model; Disorganized model. and Reactive model. Feeling felt is the basis for secure attachment.

Part IV Staying Present through changes and challengesp217 As as adults supporting adolescents, such changes may challenge us to be open to what is happening, to be receptive and responsive instead reactive, to connect rather than correct. ..p218 Presence involve being aware of what is happening as it is happening, being receptive to our own inner mental sea, and attuning to the inner life of another person. Being present for others means we resonate with that is going on in their inner mental sea, creating the essential way we feel their feelings. The feeling felt is at the heart of how we can help one another feel seen, safe, soothed and secure. Feeling felt is the basis for secure attachment. It is also the essence of healthy relationships in all domains of our lives. So often we want to help the people we love to fix their problems. We want to show them how to solve a dilemma, resolve a conflict, or get rid of painful emotions. But in order to give them what they need most of all, which is to make them feel felt and connected with us, we need to not do these well-intended things first and instead simply to be present for our loved one. If we stay attuned to this person and allow the SIFTing that merges to enter us, we can truly resonate with what this other person is sharing about their experience...This is ..challenging, (because parents and adolescents) do not seeing eye to eye. Resonance requires that we let someone's internal feelings enter us and change us.

Mindset Tools #1 Seeing and shaping the sea insidep40 Mindsight includes 3 fundamental skills: .insight: ability to sense your own inner mental life. or self-awareness.empathy: ability to sense the inner mental life another person.integration: ability to link different parts of something into interconnected whole.p40 SIFT check inward on Sensation, Image, Feeling, Thought

Mindset Tool #3 Time-Between and Reflective conservation p211 PART: present, attune,resonate, trust . The PART we play in creating ourselves in relationships.p215 Listen to what is being said, don't judge. Being open to the other person is essential to let the person feel felt and for you to truly understand what might be going on. One of the hardest elements may be to let go of the notion that you are right, and other person is wrong. Listen, take in the other person's perspective. ...Be sure your are in that receptive hub of your mind before you start, so you can be open to whatever arises in the conversation. There are no rights and wrong in repair, simply a sharing of each person's experience....more

"What were you thinking!" is a phrase I repeat often as my son approaches adolescence. After reading Brainstorm, I realize his typical answer of "I don't know" is probably correct. If this knowledge helps our relationship (because I'll try not to roll my eyes and sigh in exasperation), Siegel has accomplished one of his goals.

He also has convinced me to focus on the positive aspects of adolescence and try to nurture my teen's brain development (and, along the way, my own). The book is a refreshi"What were you thinking!" is a phrase I repeat often as my son approaches adolescence. After reading Brainstorm, I realize his typical answer of "I don't know" is probably correct. If this knowledge helps our relationship (because I'll try not to roll my eyes and sigh in exasperation), Siegel has accomplished one of his goals.

He also has convinced me to focus on the positive aspects of adolescence and try to nurture my teen's brain development (and, along the way, my own). The book is a refreshing break from the typical harangues about this age group. It's clear that Siegel truly respects teens and feels they can do a great amount of good if steered in the right direction (although this idea can veer toward teens-will-save-the-world hyperbole).

Unfortunately, it took a lot of time and effort to glean these points. If I hadn't received the book in a giveaway, thus felt compelled to review it, I probably would have put it aside or skipped large chunks.

Lack of Science

The book description is misleading. Neurobiology is not the main focus. If it were, the scientific discussions would have received more in-depth coverage. We simply are told that "Science says…" and "Research shows…." Even worse, there's no bibliography or endnotes for readers who want to explore the topics further. Siegel's Parenting from the Inside Out includes sections called "Spotlight on Science," which highlights specific researchers, studies, and results, and "Digging Deeper," which provides resources. It surprises me something similar wasn't included in this book.

Instead, the book is largely self-help. Siegel pulls exercises directly from his book Mindsight: The New Science of Personal Transformation. While I appreciate the desire to promote mindfulness (specifically meditating and integrating consciousness), I didn't expect it to be the focus of this book. A more accurate title for Brainstorm would have been Mindsight for Parents and Teens.

Writing Style

Siegel has an annoying tendency to reiterate facts in only slightly different language. I often reread sections thinking I missed something. An example occurs on p. 231:

For any adolescent, the new sensations of romantic interest and sexual arousal can be uncomfortable. When they first arise, their newness and their intensity can be confusing. These feelings can be powerful and exciting, but also overwhelming. And when sexual feelings intensify, they can feel like too much to handle.

It's a sentence thesaurus!

The redundancies may occur because he wants the book to be like a conversation with the reader. The ramblings and repetitions common in a discussion, however, do not make good reading. Perhaps the audio is a better way to "read" this book.

Audience

Siegel wants to address both adult and adolescent readers. This leads to jarring shifts from "we" to "them" to "you," sometimes within one paragraph. The writing is best when he addresses parents and he should've stuck to this. Surely any teen precocious enough to read this book would have been able to apply the information to his or her life without being told how.

Overall Structure

After looking at Parenting from the Inside Out, I believe Brainstorm would have benefitted greatly from a similar structure. The lack of a basic introduction mean that information about the purpose of the book, who the audience is, and how to read it, are sprinkle throughout leading to redundancies. PFIO also includes short introduction to each chapter. Brainstorm would have especially benefitted from these because it's designed to be read in any order. And, as already mentioned, "Spotlight on Science" and "Digging Deeper" information is sorely missed.

Rating

It's ok (2 stars). It was saved from being one star by Siegel's obvious enthusiasm and hopeful tone, as well as the useful information that will help me comprehend and navigate my child's adolescence....more

I bought this book in a desperate attempt to understand my teenage daughter, and perhaps gain some insight into strategies for dealing with her newfound surliness. This book succeeded on the first count. It contains amazing research which helps explain so much of the crazy behavior we see during the teen years. However, Brainstorm is long on complex descriptions of research studies and short on helpful techniques. Daniel Siegel is a huge proponent of individual therapy for teens and members of tI bought this book in a desperate attempt to understand my teenage daughter, and perhaps gain some insight into strategies for dealing with her newfound surliness. This book succeeded on the first count. It contains amazing research which helps explain so much of the crazy behavior we see during the teen years. However, Brainstorm is long on complex descriptions of research studies and short on helpful techniques. Daniel Siegel is a huge proponent of individual therapy for teens and members of their families, and that is discussed a fair amount as well. My daughter and I did try some of the meditation and relaxation techniques recommended in the book and enjoyed them. In all fairness, this book is not advertised as a "how to" parenting manual. That being said, it would be a far more valuable resource if the important findings were described more concisely and accompanied by real world parenting advice....more

Daniel J. Siegel, M.D., is an internationally acclaimed author, award-winning educator, and child psychiatrist. Dr. Siegel received his medical degree from Harvard University and completed his postgraduate medical education at UCLA with training in pediatrics and child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. He is currently a clinical professor of psychiatry at the UCLA School of Medicine, where he alsoDaniel J. Siegel, M.D., is an internationally acclaimed author, award-winning educator, and child psychiatrist. Dr. Siegel received his medical degree from Harvard University and completed his postgraduate medical education at UCLA with training in pediatrics and child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. He is currently a clinical professor of psychiatry at the UCLA School of Medicine, where he also serves as a co-investigator at the Center for Culture, Brain, and Development, and is a founding co-director of the Mindful Awareness Research Center. In addition, Dr. Siegel is the Executive Director of the Mindsight Institute.

Dr. Siegel has the unique ability to convey complicated scientific concepts in a concise and comprehensible way that all readers can enjoy. He has become known for his research in Interpersonal Neurobiology – an interdisciplinary view that creates a framework for the understanding of our subjective and interpersonal lives. In his most recent works, Dr. Siegel explores how mindfulness practices can aid the process of interpersonal and intrapersonal attunement, leading to personal growth and well-being.

Published author of several highly acclaimed works, Dr. Siegel’s books include the New York Times’ bestseller “Brainstorm”, along with "Mindsight," "The Developing Mind," "The Mindful Brain," "The Mindful Therapist," in addition to co-authoring "Parenting From the Inside Out," with Mary Hartzell and "The Whole-Brain Child," with Tina Bryson. He is also the Founding Editor of the Norton Professional Series on Interpersonal Neurobiology, which includes "Healing Trauma," "The Power of Emotion," and "Trauma and the Body." Dr. Siegel currently lives in Los Angeles with his wife.

For more information on Dr. Siegel's work, please visit DrDanSiegel.com....more